Ka Pomblang Nongkrem

November

Shillong, Meghalaya

The most celebrated and intricate festival of the Khasi tribe that resides in North-east India, the Ka Pomblang Nongkrem spans over five days of elaborate festivities, sacrifices and performances. Held yearly in November, it is observed at the capital of the Khyrem Syiemship, Smit, on Shillong’s outskirts.

The most celebrated and intricate festival of the Khasi tribe that resides in North-east India, the Ka Pomblang Nongkrem spans over five days of elaborate festivities, sacrifices and performances. Held yearly in November, it is observed at the capital of the Khyrem Syiemship, Smit, on Shillong’s outskirts.

High atop Shillong peak, a goat is sacrificed to the deity of Goddess Ka Blei Synshar as a thanksgiving for a fertile harvest and the prosperity and flourishing of the tribe. The natives dress traditionally, adorning themselves with indigenous jewellery and present the renowned Nongkrem dance amidst cheers from onlookers. People come from far and wide to experience this cultural extravaganza and fall for its contrasting humility and eloquence.